Project aims to bring millions of flowers to Vermont city

Residents encouraged to plant seeds of revitalization

The idea to clean up Rutland is not a new one, but doing it with a rake, shovel and wheelbarrow is catching on.

"The response is unbelievable. Literally in the last 10 days, we've gone from an idea to have 40 partners on board," said Steve Costello of Green Mountain Power.

The corporation is spearheading the project called Rutland Blooms. Its aim is to plant millions of flowers around the city.

"The thought is to get Rutlanders to think about their city a little bit differently than they do now and ultimately getting people outside of Rutland to think about the city in a different way as well," said Costello.

"We're dealing with a number of issues in our neighborhood," said Rutland Mayor Chris Louras. Those issues include crime and drugs. Louras hopes a visible effort like this one will improve the quality of life.

He adds the hands-on aspect of the project makes it inviting to all residents.

"It's not just the traditional stakeholders with the community watching and being glad that things are happening, but actually the community engaging on a number of small levels," said Louras.

GMP gave plants to those who turned out for Monday's news conference to take home to their gardens.

Costello said seeds will be passed out in schools and bulbs will be doled by some local businesses.

And while Stafford Tech students already have a handle on the city hall lawn, he said Rutland Blooms has many more spots on the spring planting list.